McLaren, Mercedes deny reunion for 2018

McLaren has denied rumours claims that they will be teaming up with Mercedes for next season. The Woking based team used to be supplied by the German manufacturer before deciding on a new project to run with Honda units in 2015.

The partnership has been a disaster as McLaren has failed to move from the midfield, and this year look nearer the back of the grid. There have been rumours that the partnership is on hinges.

This week Eddie Jordan made the prediction that the deal for 2018 would happen, however racing director of McLaren Eric Boullier shot down the comments: "I can only say that Eddie is wrong."

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says that McLaren does not need Mercedes due to the historic partnership between McLaren and Honda: "Honda and McLaren are two famous and historical brands, and they don't need us. I'm sure they will be able to get out of their situation together."

Nonetheless, it is clear that the missing piece at McLaren in 2017 is the engine. Fernando Alonso said in Sochi: "I like the way the car behaves in the corners, and the new cars suit my style. I would like to think that with a normal engine we could be fighting with the leaders."